Indian Star Tortoise

Indian Star Tortoise Latest News

Recently, 216 rescued Indian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans) were successfully rehabilitated in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) from Mumbai and Thane. 

About Indian Star Tortoise

• It is a medium-sized terrestrial tortoise.
• Their name comes from the star-like pattern on their shell. 
• These patterns act as camouflage by helping to break up the shell outline so that it more easily blends into its surroundings.
• Habitat: It inhabits dry areas and scrub forest.
• Distribution: It is mainly found in the Indian subcontinent, specifically western India and southeastern India (Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu), and in Sri Lanka.
• Features
  • It can grow to 10 inches long. Females are considerably larger than their male counterparts.
  • These are generally crepuscular, which means they are active in the early morning and the late afternoon during dry, hot weather. 
  • Life Span: It has a lifespan of 35 to 80 years in the wild.
  • These solitary animals do not hibernate, but when it is very dry and hot, or very cold, they stay inactive. 
• Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

Source: TOI

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